Man City boss Mancini challenges Balotelli to prove his worth

Roberto Mancini has challenged Mario Balotelli to prove his worth to Manchester City and force his way back into the starting line-up.

The controversial Italy forward has not featured for the Citizens since being substituted early in the second half of the derby defeat by Manchester United earlier this month.

Mancini left the striker out of his squad altogether for last Saturday’s trip to Newcastle, but the Italian manager insists he will draft the forward back into his squad as soon – as he has proved himself worthy of a spot in his team again.

“We need to have all the players this month as we have a lot of games in two weeks. Mario needs to train,” said Mancini.

“I don’t think he was happy about it [to be left out of the squad] on Saturday but, when he starts to show his quality, he will play again.”

But Mancini warned that he will have no qualms in leaving him out again if he does not perform. He added: “If a player like Mario is not performing then he will stay at home.”